The winners scored 33% higher than competing companies on executive confidence, based on ratings from employees at Best Medium Workplaces, and scored 20% higher than competitors on key issues like innovation, based on ratings from employees at Best Small Workplaces.

The winning businesses ranked high in employee engagement, which studies show decreases as staff levels increase. Businesses that ranked high in executive confidence and innovation also showed fast revenue growth.

Dive Insight:

Trustworthy leaders and positive cultures are what get companies of any size on “best in category” lists. Employees access to wellness programs, managers that listen and a culture of appreciation are more likely to remain at their current organizations. Also, leaders who inspire trust tend to have successful teams, say employment experts.

A similar report from Fortune, Best Workplaces for Women, showed that workplaces that value women also tend to value other disenfranchised groups — a key aspect of building a good work culture and a great place to work. Ninety-five percent of women describe the winning workplaces as friendly, welcoming environments they would recommend to others and 93% of all employees at these top-rated workplaces said customers rate their employers' services as "excellent."

HR can help lead their organizations in becoming trustworthy, ethical and innovative.